Protecting fire safety equipment in harsh weather

Do fire extinguishers freeze? How can they be protected against harsh weather conditions? Ensuring fire safety equipment is not only present on the premises, but kept in good working order, can mean the difference between life and death should a fire ever take hold.

It’s important to protect all fire extinguishers from any kind of damage. But for those located outside, measures to prevent corrosion in harsh weather should also be considered. Here, we look at why it’s important to protect fire extinguishers from the elements and consider the most effective ways to do it.

Meeting standards

Fire safety equipment stored outdoors needs to take cover from bad weather just as we do. With winter – and possibly freezing weather – just around the corner, it’s wise to consider and arrange protection now. BS 5306 Standards outline a requirement for protective measures to be taken for fire extinguishers or alternatively, opt for fire extinguishers designed to withstand certain environments.

Fire extinguisher cabinets

Extremely durable and shatterproof, a fire extinguisher wall cabinet is a highly efficient way to protect fire extinguishers. Manufactured from ABS plastic, they possess remarkable protection qualities, including resistance to chemicals. Plus, their clever weather seals ensure fire extinguishers are firmly covered so they’ll last as long as possible. 

A lockable fire extinguisher cabinet will not only protect against accidental damage and harsh weather conditions, its lockable system adds an extra level of security. This type of fire extinguisher cabinet is well-favoured on construction sites, which are deserted overnight and often fall victim to arson and vandalism. Lockable fire extinguisher storage cabinets can house one or two extinguishers and provide peace of mind that they’re protected and stored safely, as well as reducing risk of spillages, tampering, corrosion, knocks and bumps.

Fire extinguisher safety boxes

An ideal storage solution for fire safety equipment in a variety of outdoor settings, a safety box provides solid, durable protection against the elements. Made from a plastic material with high resistance to water and dust ingress, UV rays, as well as high and low temperatures, the Commander Safety Box offers high protection in many outdoor settings. Its ergonomic side handles make for easy carrying – perfect for use on a petrol station forecourts where fire extinguishers must be easily transportable, as well as protected from harsh weather.

Fire extinguisher covers

A fire extinguisher cover is an alternative option for protection, providing an economical and unobtrusive solution for the maintenance of fire safety equipment. A cover can be used in conjunction with a wheeled fire point stand, perfect for outdoor events where fire safety equipment needs to be easily moved and defended against the elements. This PVC fire extinguisher cover features a large clear vision panel so the extinguisher can be quickly identified in times of need, and has Velcro straps for ease of application.

Can fire extinguishers freeze?

While fire extinguisher cabinets and covers keep cold, wet weather at bay and are great for all-round protection, certain fire extinguishers will need extra protection from freezing weather temperatures. Water and foam fire extinguishers installed outdoors (or in areas with no heating) are particularly vulnerable. Their contents may freeze and the internal lining can become damaged if exposed to temperatures below 5°c, rendering the fire extinguishers permanently useless should they ever be needed. It’s wise to take extra caution and purchase a new water or foam extinguisher if a current one has been exposed to temperatures below that threshold.

Fire extinguishers with antifreeze

A low freeze fire extinguisher provides a solution for those environments that can reach bitterly cold temperatures. This ensures that, should you need to use the equipment in winter, it’s functional and its contents haven’t frozen. The Commander 9ltr Water Fire Extinguisher is pre-filled with a low freeze additive, allowing it to withstand temperatures as low as -10°c. This type of fire extinguisher is suitable for tackling Class A fires (such as wood, paper, and fabric) and is ideal for placement on construction sites, camping sites, farms, and educational settings.

Dry chemical fire extinguishers

If eliminating the threat of cold isn’t an option, determine whether to implement a dry powder fire extinguisher instead. Dry powder fire extinguishers can endure freezing temperatures with no effect on their usage or efficacy. A dry powder fire extinguisher is extremely versatile, suitable for use on Class A (combustible materials), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class C (flammable gases) fires.

As well as knowing how to keep a water fire extinguisher from freezing and how to protect fire safety equipment from the elements, it’s crucial to spend time implementing this knowledge. It’s also worth preparing premises for fire safety throughout the winter months in a more general sense, to gain peace of mind. 

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